What can my department do to be prepared for the potential influenza pandemic?

• Provide the annual flu vaccine to all members.
• Meet with your local health department to determine the role of public safety in the local plan.
• Make sure the department is part of the information exchange throughout the process.
• Inventory and maintain adequate supplies of personal protective equipment, including masks, gloves, disinfectants, etc.
• Meet with your local hospitals to determine if there are planned changes for the delivery and disposition of patients displaying symptoms during an epidemic or pandemic.
• Meet with your agency medical director to determine if patient protocols need to be developed or altered to address an epidemic/pandemic.
• Administratively, review your routine staffing patterns and develop contingency plans to incorporate high levels of absenteeism during an epidemic/pandemic.
• Constantly monitor changes and communicate those of significance to your personnel.

What can I do to be prepared for the potential influenza pandemic?

• Get an annual flu shot for yourself and your family to reduce the chance of influenza infection.
• Understand how viruses are transmitted and practice prevention techniques at home and at work.
• Identify the groups in your community that are at risk for influenza, as designated by the CDC.
• Practice good hand washing and cough hygiene at all time.
• Maintain and use all protective equipment and supplies when appropriate.
• Keep abreast of changes locally, regionally, nationally and worldwide.
• Be an ambassador for influenza health and information to your family and friends.
• Have a plan for your family if a pandemic occurs.

Download the Avian (bird) Flu Brochure